Hilo USA
Country: USA · Region: Hawaii · Currency: US Dollar
Hilo is the county seat and largest city in Hawaii County on the Big Island's rainy east side, serving as an excellent starting point to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and other eastern island attractions. Though small and relaxed with just 44,186 residents, it offers museums, natural wonders, and vibrant local markets.
Top sights
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, Pacific Tsunami Museum, Lili'uokalani Gardens, Lyman House Museum, King Kamehameha Statue
Things to do
- Pacific Tsunami Museum
- Located at 130 Kamehameha Ave, this museum serves as a living memorial to the devastating tsunamis that hit Hilo in 1946 and 1960.
- Rainbow Falls
- A scenic waterfall accessible from downtown via Waianuenue Avenue that is very wheelchair accessible and offers better rainbow viewing in early morning.
- Lili'uokalani Gardens
- An authentic Japanese garden built in the early 1900s on Banyan Drive as a memorial to Japanese immigrants and named after Hawaii's last reigning monarch.
- Mokupāpapa Discovery Center
- Located at 76 Kamehameha Ave, this center features a 3,500 gallon saltwater aquarium and exhibits about the Hawaiian World Heritage site Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.
Beaches
- Richardson's Ocean Park
- Located at the end of Kalanianaole Highway, this popular family spot features occasional waves and is known for snorkeling.
- Four Mile Beach
- A popular swimming spot on Kalanianaole Highway that functions like a large saltwater pool with a sandy bottom protected by a reef and fed by freshwater springs.
Where to eat
- Hilo Farmer's Market
- Located at the corner of Mamo and Kamehameha Avenue with Wednesday and Saturday morning hours, it offers fresh produce, fish, flowers, Hawaiian jams, and prepared snacks.
- Hilo Homemade Ice Cream
- Located downtown at 41 Waianuenue Avenue, this shop serves locally-made ice cream renowned as some of the best on earth.
Forecast for Hilo
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Weather in Hilo by month
Averages from 2015 to 2024, not a forecast. Within about two weeks of a date, the live forecast above is the one to trust.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rainfall | Wet days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 76°F | 65°F | 5.7 in | 15 |
| February | 75°F | 65°F | 8.1 in | 19 |
| March | 75°F | 66°F | 10.1 in | 23 |
| April | 76°F | 67°F | 9.4 in | 24 |
| May | 77°F | 68°F | 7.9 in | 27 |
| June | 78°F | 69°F | 5.2 in | 23 |
| July | 80°F | 70°F | 6.6 in | 26 |
| August | 80°F | 71°F | 8.8 in | 25 |
| September | 81°F | 71°F | 5.8 in | 23 |
| October | 80°F | 70°F | 8.6 in | 21 |
| November | 78°F | 68°F | 9.3 in | 22 |
| December | 76°F | 66°F | 8.1 in | 22 |
Getting around
Rent a car at Hilo International Airport for best access to attractions, though downtown Hilo is walkable and the Hele-On Bus system serves the city and airport.
What to eat
Hilo is known for locally-made ice cream available downtown, and the Hilo Farmer's Market offers fresh local produce, fish, and prepared snacks.
Tips
Visit Rainbow Falls early in the day for the best chance to see rainbows created by mist, and arrive at the Farmer's Market early like locals do before items sell out.
Best for
Volcanoes, natural attractions, local culture